§ 50. Mr. R. MORRISONasked the Home Secretary whether he has now examined the evidence of tea bonus frauds submitted to him on behalf of a London newspaper; and whether he has decided to take any action?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSThe Commissioner of Police, who has had extensive inquiries made regarding matters arising in the Metropolitan police district, is considering whether any proceedings are practicable. I understand that an action has already been decided in a County Court but is the subject of an appeal, and that one firm is proceeding against the newspaper in question for libel, and it is impossible for me to go into details while such proceedings are pending.
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHAWhy is the Commissioner of Police and not the Director of Prosecutions examining the facts of the case?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSThe hon. Gentleman does not realise that in a com- 988 paratively unimportant matter the police can prosecute even without the instructions of myself. It is only matters of particular importance that are referred to the Public Prosecutor.